The City Manager is appointed by the City Council to direct the administrative operations of the City government. The incumbent is responsible for planning, directing, coordinating and reviewing the activities and operations of all city departments. The City Manager appoints all department heads and employees, except those appointed by the City Council - City Manager/City Clerk, and City Attorney. A major role for the City Manager is recommending the budget to the Council on an annual basis.

The City Manager, with the city staff, formulates recommendations to the City Council, and then is responsible for carrying out the approved policies and goals of the City throughout the organization.